Bridging the Gap: One Signal, Big Impact

Olango Island lies east of Mactan in Cebu known for its wildlife sanctuary, stunning beaches, and diving spots. It’s one of the many places in Cebu that showcases the province’s natural beauty. Amidst the scenic landscapes of the province, one essential thing remains lacking: a stable internet connection.

In this generation, education has been enhanced with technology. There are online learning platforms, video conferencing tools, educational apps, and many more. One of the most important in this digital age is having a laptop or tablet to gain access to these learning tools online. And above all, an internet connection to start. 

Lost for a day

Last April 11, 2025, during the Pay IT Forward: A Digital Transformation Advocacy event, we spoke with the beneficiaries as eight DepEd schools in Cebu were selected to receive 100 tablets and three Starlink satellite internet units. Receiving the Starlink satellite now opens more opportunities for the teachers and students located in underserved areas in the province.

Nolieto Tisoy, School Principal of Nemesio Epifania Taneo Memorial High School shares with us their school’s journey to acquiring stable internet connection. 

“There was a modem previously in Globe. It is very difficult for us because there will be a disruption of signals and then later we subscribe to the CCTN, and same also. If the weather is not in good condition there will be challenges in internet connectivity.” He stated

Crisdee Endino, School Principal of Cabagdalan National Highschool in Balamban, Cebu also shared with us how internet connection also affects preparing lessons for their students.

“So for preparation of lessons, we tried to connect mixed multimedia lessons with traditional teaching in the classroom. Sometimes the problem, in the preparation stage, we can’t do that one because the internet connection is really slow. We can not upload videos, 

we cannot give students what’s best for them.”

He continued that they also rarely get cellular signal in the school and that they can’t even call their family back home, especially during bad weather. 

“We’re lost for a day, for eight hours”

Even with the teacher’s own efforts , it’s difficult to gain internet access when no one is there to support them from the other side. 

Providing access to better futures

As one of the principals said with gratitude, a simple act of help can bring hope — and make what once felt out of reach, possible. 

“My dream for my school is officially being realized by the iACADEMY and republicasia because we are part of the recipient for the starlink. Really, I’m so thankful for iACADEMY and republicasia” Endino said. 

Maria Christy Deguma, School Principal  at Alpaco National Highschool, expressed her gratitude for the support that was given to their school.

“Keep on supporting because this can really be of great help to our students especially in remote areas. Thank you so much, iACADEMY and Republicasia”

Teachers can now truly thrive and take their place in the digital age— empowered to guide their students in a learning environment that uplifts, equips, and strengthens their skills.This is only the first step to bridging the digital gap. A satellite that brings connection and learning in the digital era. One signal can spark a big change— a big impact.